Understanding and strength about life from a mormon's perspective.

Memorial Day

In honor of this past weekend, I feel it only right to share a few thoughts that I had in regards to Memorial Day. It was a great weekend to spend time with family and friends, but most importantly to reflect and remember those who gave their lives for this great country. I personally thought of my grandfather who served in the United States Navy during World War II.

During church services this past Sunday, one of the speakers cited the fourth verse of the Star Spangled Banner. We are often familiar with the first verse, but many may be surprised to learn that there were actually four verses written by Francis Scott Key. The fourth verse is as follows…

“O! Thus be it ever when freemen shall stand,

Between their lov’d home, and the war’s desolation,

Blest with vict’ry and peace, may the Heav’n rescued land,

Praise the Power that hath made and preserv’d us a nation!

Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,

And this be our motto-”In God is our Trust;”

And the star-spangled Banner in triumph shall wave,

O’er the Land of the Free, and the Home of the Brave.”

It is noted that this nation was created, and is protected by a Power. This is truth. I feel there are many that would agree with this scripture from the Book of Mormon…

“Behold, this is a choice land, and whatsoever nation shall possess it shall be free from bondage, and from captivity, and from all other nations under heaven, if they will but serve the God of the land, who is Jesus Christ, who hath been manifested by the things which we have written.” -Ether 2:12

This account was written by a people who lived on the ancient american continent. I highly recommend a read of the Book of Mormon. It is scripture that has been preserved for us. There is much for us to learn from its pages. About ourselves, about our country, and about our Savior Jesus Christ. It has changed my life, and I’m forever thankful for it.

To any members of the Armed Forces who read this, whether currently serving or retired, thank you.